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In God's Hands

Name: In God's Hands
Director: Zalman King
Released: 1998
Duration: 96 min

Representation Score

3.2/10

Limited

1998

PG-13

Director

Zalman King

Runtime

96 minutes

Average Rating

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New Showbiz Analysis

In God's Hands follows a traditional adventure storyline centered around male protagonists. While the international settings provide opportunities for multiculturalism, the core narrative remains focused on conventional masculine pursuits. The film relies on familiar formulas of spiritual struggle and individual mastery. It does not challenge social hierarchies or provide meaningful representation for diverse identities. Overall, the film adheres to genre standards, emphasizing aesthetics and competition over diverse social perspectives.

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Category Breakdown

Does In God's Hands have LGBTQ+ representation?

Limited

The film does not include explicit LGBTQ+ characters or stories. It emphasizes the camaraderie and competition among male surfers, focusing on traditional masculine bonds.

How does In God's Hands portray gender?

Fair

The story is dominated by male characters such as Shane, Mickey, and Keoni. Women play minor roles and do not have significant influence or intellectual presence.

How racially and ethnically diverse is In God's Hands?

Fair

The film features settings in Madagascar, Bali, and Hawaii, which offer a framework for ethnic diversity. The character Keoni hints at a shift away from purely Anglo-centric storytelling.

How does In God's Hands represent religion and culture?

Limited

The plot revolves around individual excellence and mastery, likely engaging with traditional spirituality. It does not critique Western institutions or secularism.

Does In God's Hands include disability representation?

Minimal

There is no evidence of characters with physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Present on Screen

The film utilizes international settings in Madagascar, Bali, and Hawaii, providing a natural backdrop for geographic and ethnic diversity.
The inclusion of characters like Keoni suggests a move away from strictly Anglo-centric narratives.

Limited or Absent

The narrative is heavily male-dominated, focusing primarily on the drives and bonds of male surfers.
There is a lack of visible LGBTQ+ representation or narratives that challenge traditional assumptions.
The film does not include characters with physical or neurodivergent disabilities.

Official Synopsis

Three pro surfers - gifted Shane, once-great Mickey and rising young star Keoni travel to Madagascar, Bali and Hawaii in search for the ultimate wave.

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